asymptotic

[ as-im-tot-ik ]

adjective

, Mathematics.

1. of or relating to an asymptote.
2. (of a function) approaching a given value as an expression containing a variable tends to infinity.
3. (of two functions) so defined that their ratio approaches unity as the independent variable approaches a limit or infinity.
4. (of a formula) becoming increasingly exact as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity.
5. coming into consideration as a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity:

   asymptotic property; asymptotic behavior.

asymptotic

/ ˌæsɪmˈtɒtɪk /

adjective

1. of or referring to an asymptote
2. (of a function, series, formula, etc) approaching a given value or condition, as a variable or an expression containing a variable approaches a limit, usually infinity

Derived Forms

• ˌasympˈtotically, adverb

Other Words From

• as·ymp·tot·i·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of asymptotic¹

First recorded in 1665–75; asymptot(e) + -ic

Example Sentences

Born roughly twice as massive as the sun and lying about 1,300 light-years from Earth, V Hydrae is what’s known as an asymptotic giant branch star.

From Science News

Regular testing of asymptotic people could play a crucial role with this disease because half of those who infect others have no symptoms.

From Nautilus

That is, the surface of the stream tends to become asymptotic to a horizontal line D0D1.

From Project Gutenberg